Southern Minnesota man dies after fish house explosion

Victim’s identity released

Explosion occurred on Mille Lacs Lake

A 56-year-old southern Minnesota man has died as a result of injuries sustained during a fish house explosion on Mille Lacs Lake. The victim has been identified as David John O'Leary of St. Peter, Minnesota.

The explosion occurred on Saturday afternoon, February 18, 2023, at approximately 1:30 p.m. O'Leary was inside the fish house with two other individuals when the explosion occurred. The other two individuals were able to escape the fish house without injury. O'Leary was airlifted to Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, where he later died from his injuries.

The cause of the explosion is still under investigation. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is investigating the incident. The Mille Lacs County Sheriff's Office is assisting with the investigation.

O'Leary was an avid fisherman and outdoorsman. He was a member of the St. Peter Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. He is survived by his wife, three children, and two grandchildren.

This is a developing story. More information will be released as it becomes available.